Different types of student accommodation

As you settle into university life there are many options to consider when it comes to choosing accommodation there are several options. Unless you are planning to stay at home you have the choice of several accommodation options including university halls of residence, private student accommodation and private housing. 

Choosing where to live whilst at university isn’t an easy decision so be sure to take your time and carry out lots of research. Your university will likely have an accommodation team who can offer you advice about local accommodation. You may also find it helpful to talk to older students for recommendations or seek advice from family and friends. 

University halls 

All universities have managed accommodation or halls available for students. These can either be catering or self-catering and you’ll likely be sharing a flat with other students (although you’ll probably have your own room). Halls of residence also have communal kitchens and laundry facilities available for students to use. 

You will usually need to apply for a place in halls of residence after accepting an offer from the university. The university website will be able to tell you when applications open and the process for applying. Here you can also find out more information about fees and any other conditions. Depending on the university you may be able to visit the halls to see them for yourself before applying – accommodation tours are also usually available as part of university open days. 

Advantages 

• You’ll be sharing with other students, therefore, they’ll be a strong social life 
• Support will be available from your university (there will likely be dedicated accommodation officers)
• Some halls may organise activities such as quizzes, parties, film nights or even trips 
• Your bills including broadband and utilities are included in the price 

Disadvantages 

• No choice of who you share a flat with or which room you get 
• Likely to be lots of noise and mess
• Halls often have strict rules such as no noise after a certain time

Private student accommodation 

Private student accommodation is similar to university halls of residence except they are owned and managed by private companies. These are often located in city centres near the campus however will likely be more expensive than university accommodation. 

You’ll be sharing a flat with other students although you’ll have your own room (and possibly your own bathroom). There will also be communal areas such as kitchens, lounges, laundry and study areas. The more upmarket (and more expensive) accommodation may even have gyms, games rooms and bars. Some private halls may even offer studio apartments where you’ll have your own kitchen and bathroom although these are more expensive. 

Advantages 

• Access to more amenities such as a gym 
• Greater choice of room available 
• Are likely to be located in the city centre so close to shops, bars, cafes etc 

Disadvantages 

• More expensive than university halls of residence 
• Are located away from campus so you will need to travel each day 
• You may need to share with students from other universities

Private accommodation 

Another option is to rent a flat or house from a private landlord. It’s best to share with other students unless you can afford to pay the rent yourself. Sharing with other students means you can split the cost of rent, utilities, food etc. However, you will be responsible for managing all of the bills yourself so you’ll need to be prepared to budget each month. 

Some universities have a list of recommended landlords that have positive reviews from other students. You can also ask for recommendations from other students – there may also be social media groups set up to help students find accommodation. 

Advantages 

• The rent is likely to be cheaper than in student halls 
• You can choose who to share the accommodation with 
• There may be better parking available 

Disadvantages 

• You and your flatmates will need to manage the bills 
• You may be living further away from the campus than in student halls 
• You’ll need to deal directly with your landlord 

Follow us on Twitter @BeInTheKnow_UK